And everybody inside another of Japan's many impressive stadiums was a bag of nerves long before kick-off.
There was a completely different mood from that experienced in the run-up to the group matches.
With one defeat spelling certain doom, it is hard not to feel a lump in the throat and a shiver down the spine.
Fortunately for England, it seems such anxiety affected Denmark goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen more than anyone.
From the moment he fumbled Rio Ferdinand's header into the net, the Three Lions contingent were in little doubt that their side could make it to the last eight.
And after Michael Owen and Emile Heskey sealed the result the party could begin in earnest.
The huge England following that has travelled to the Far East is perhaps more unified than ever before.
Few supporters display club colours at matches - a trend which has so often plagued international games at home.
Individual loyalties have been put aside, wth every venue visited so far awash with a sea of red and white.
England fans are also now comforted by the knowledge that they will receive a keen welcome from the Japanese wherever they play.
The warm friendship the hosts have extended to their visitors will leave an indelible impression on everyone who has been lucky enough to attend this tournament.
Talk in the Niigata street parties after the game was of the possible semi-final meeting between the two countries.
There is still a lot of football to be played before that can happen - but both sets of supporters would cherish such an encounter.
E-mail this story to a friend
